2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Las Cruces, NM vs Santa Barbara, CA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Santa Barbara older or younger than people in Las Cruces?
- The Median Age in Santa Barbara is 6.4 years older than in Las Cruces.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Barbara or Las Cruces?
- Santa Barbara housing costs are 465.6% more expensive than Las Cruces housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Barbara or Las Cruces?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Barbara is 1.0 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Las Cruces.

Things to do in Las Cruces?
Las Cruces, New Mexico is a vibrant city located in Dona Ana County. From its breathtaking views to its many cultural attractions, Las Cruces has something for everyone! Outdoor activities like the Dripping Springs Natural Area and the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument will keep visitors entertained all day long. Plus, those looking for an educational experience can browse places like the Museum of Art or the Double Eagle ll Historic Site. And when they've had their fill of activities, visitors can enjoy a delicious meal from restaurants like Jazzy Bar & Grille or La Posta de Mesilla. With so much to offer, Las Cruces is an ideal destination for a memorable experience!

Things to do in Santa Barbara?
Santa Barbara, California has something for everyone - from fantastic beaches to world-class shopping and dining experiences. Visitors can explore Old Mission Santa Barbara or take part in various water activities around Stearns Wharf.

 Las Cruces, NMSanta Barbara, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock89,132329,725,481
 Median Income$47,722  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock39.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$269,700  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.1%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time18.12  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Las Cruces    50 Reviews

I've lived in Las Cruces for six months now. Before moving here I was in Albuquerque (3 hrs north) for four years and before that I lived in Northern Utah most of my  More

   |    Reply

Over 2 years ago

Las Cruces is a hidden gem! Homes are still affordable, you're not far from bigger city entertainment/transportation, and the scenery in beautiful. It's not all dry  More

   |    Reply

Over 4 years ago

It depends on what you are looking for; for me Las Cruces is and ideal place. I am retired and the kind of places I seek to live in have changed over the years. I have  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Las Cruces

Reviews for Santa Barbara    51 Reviews

I moved to Santa Barbara around 23 years ago to study at Brooks, which like most of the Santa Barbara that I knew—has been destroyed. Homelessness, drugs, gangs, high  More

   |    Reply

Over 4 years ago

I fell in love with Santa Barbara about thirty years ago and finally moved here a few years ago. Because of the price of homes, it is an expensive place to live. The  More

   |    Reply

If you like high crime, paying a $4,500 a month mortgage and crazy high taxes, this is the place for you. It’s too bad because it wasn’t always like this. When I moved  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Santa Barbara


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.